Attorney General Lisa Madigan today announced a lawsuit against an online used auto parts company based in Bloomington for cheating consumers out of thousands of dollars.

Madigan filed the lawsuit in McLean County Circuit Court against Partz Now Inc. and owner Allen Carter, of Bloomington. Carter has operated Partz Now online since 2009, selling used auto parts to consumers nationwide. Madigan’s lawsuit alleges consumers never received their orders from www.partznow.com, or in some cases, received the wrong part and were not refunded.

“Anyone can set up shop on the Internet,” Madigan said. “That’s why it’s important to ensure you’re working with a reputable company. Check to see if any complaints have been filed against the company with my office’s Consumer Fraud Bureau or the Better Business Bureau before making any significant purchases.”

Consumers around the country reported complaints to Madigan’s office, reporting losses of at least $13,000. Madigan is asking the court to shut down the business and prohibit Carter from selling auto parts. The suit also seeks to cancel pending contracts with consumers, obtain restitution for affected consumers and impose civil penalties on the defendant.